I am wanting to build my first laminate bow
I have a good bandsaw and belt sander.
I have read mixed reviews on light bulb heat boxes
I am over budget before I have started I do not have $300 for heat tape. Will light bulb heat box work? Were can I get a thermostat cheep.
Should I build my heat box out of plywood or foam board?
Thanks

Light bulb box will work.
Haven't used heat tape,bet its good.
Built my box from plywood,lined it with foilfaced foam.

Check this out for a thermo and other stuff.....

http://binghamprojects.com/

3 100 watt bulbs gets mine to about 120 degrees.
I use a dimmer switch and thermometer in the box

I agree with 3 bulb method. Mine has 4 with a t-stat and just aluminum foil. The heat box only accelerates the curring process.
Greg

Yup, the heat box with bulbs works fine.  I have 4 100 watt bulbs with a dimmer switch and I can hold 180 degress nice and easy.....

I used Binghams instructions and thermostat(168deg) and with 4, 100w bulbs I reach max temp. I do have 1/2" foil backed foam board on all sides and top of the inside of my box.  To get less heat I unscrew 1 or more bulbs. One, 100w bulb will bring my box to just under 100deg. This is for drying wood.  Pat

I bought a thermostat for a hot water heater at Lowe's for $9.00. My box is plywood. I use 6 bulbs and a fan to circulate the air. Works good.

Do you  have to use a heat box? If not how long for cure time without one?

ckanous, It depends on the glue. Some glues will set at room temp but it usually takes longer for it to set. Urac(for wood on wood) is one that will set at room temp but I prefer to give it a few hours in my hot box. I don't make glass bows so I don't know about Smooth-on or any of the other glues.   Pat